Scout report of Jesus Vallejo as he makes first Real Madrid start in La Liga

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  • Every weekend we pick out one under-23 player from around Europe and analyse their performance to provide you with an in-depth scouting report.

    This week, we shine the spotlight on Jesus Vallejo, who made his first La Liga start for Real Madrid against Las Palmas on Sunday night.

    Here’s an analysis of his display as the hosts won 3-0 at the Bernabeu.

    BASIC STATS

    Tackles – 1

    Clearances – 4

    Interceptions – 3

    Aerials duels won – 0

    Touches – 66

    Passes – 57

    Passing Accuracy – 80.7%

    Dribbles – 1

    EFFECTIVENESS

    With Raphael Varane injured, Zinedine Zidane called upon Vallejo to partner Sergio Ramos and he slotted in perfectly.

    He was calm and composed at the back, making light work of keeping Las Palmas at bay. He never seemed to struggle or have to extend himself. Instead, he always seemed in control, using his great positioning and anticipation to remain on top situations.

    Such was the assurance he offered that Ramos felt confident venturing forward in the closing stages with the 20-year-old available to sweep up behind him, which he had to do on a couple of occasions.

    While his passing out from the back was not the best, he was on the money when it came to his defending.

    Jonathan Calleri (L) challenges Jesus Vallejo

    Jonathan Calleri (L) challenges Jesus Vallejo

    KEY MOMENTS

    27th min – Las Palmas counter after Toni Kroos’ shot hits Ronaldo but Vallejo makes a good interception to avert the danger from a four on two scenario.

    83rd min – For once, Vallejo doesn’t properly cover a free man and when Vitolo is slipped in, he has time to play a ball across the face of goal but Jonathan Calleri couldn’t find the target and was offside anyway.

    84th min – Madrid’s defence panic a bit as Las Palmas attack again but Vallejo’s headed clearance behind for a corner maintains the clean sheet.

    87th min – Navarro looks to whip in a dangerous cross but Vallejo does brilliantly to block it off and send the ball behind for a corner.

    VERDICT

    Another promising young talent coming through for Madrid. He didn’t necessarily blow away the Bernabeu crowd but definitely held his own and went about his business without any glitches. His positioning and anticipation were the hallmarks of his performance.

    RATING: 7/10

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